Trent Bryde, the No. 1 singles and doubles player for the Georgia men’s tennis team, has been awarded a wildcard bid to the 2021 Truist Atlanta Open. 

Tournament Director Eddie Gonzalez surprised Bryde with the announcement at the Dan Magill Tennis Complex on Tuesday. 

The Truist Atlanta Open is one of 10 ATP tour events in the United States, and annually takes place at Atlantic Station in Midtown Atlanta. This year’s tournament runs from July 24-Aug. 1. Bryde will take part in the annual College Night, which takes place July 27. 

“I can’t even put it into words — this is such a prestigious event,” Bryde said. “Eddie Gonzalez is a director who wants to give opportunities to young players, and it is so big for us to jump start our careers. I can’t wait to play with some of the top guys in the world. It’s going to be such a fun night.” 

Bryde, a native of Suwanee, Ga., is the Bulldogs’ highest-ranked player with a No. 5 national ranking in doubles and No. 16 mark in singles. The 2020 Intercollegiate Tennis Association All-American has totaled nine wins at the No. 1 singles court and ended the regular season on a three-match win streak. He and Tyler Zink have teamed together to lead Georgia with 13 wins in doubles, including an impressive 4-1 record against ranked opponents. 

“We are so appreciative of Eddie Gonzalez and everyone at the Atlanta Open who continue to make college tennis a priority,” head coach Manuel Diaz said. “Each year, this event hosts the best players from all around the world. This will be an invaluable experience for Trent as he gets ready for another season of college tennis with aspirations of playing pro tennis one day. We are excited for him and could not be happier about this tremendous opportunity.” 

Previous Bulldogs to compete in the Atlanta Open College Night include Nathan Pasha, Austin Smith and Emil Reinberg. Georgia legend John Isner is a five-time singles champion of the event. 

Matches at the Atlanta Open will be open to the public. The event will follow strict safety protocols and will adhere to CDC, state and local health and safety guidelines. Tickets are now on sale at www.atlantaopentennis.com.